We can recycle your t-shirts into a keepsake

memory quilt! 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Welcome to Custom Tee Shirt Quilts!  Below I have made a list of answers to some of the questions you may have or if you have any questions about the process  please call or email me.  Your  quilt is treated with the love and care it deserves.  Your satisfaction is my priority.  

** A quilt is similar to a comforter, not a full size bedspread. 

** Each t-shirt (block) is backed with a fusible interfacing to give it stability. This is an important step that keeps the shirts from stretching over the years and is included in our price! We cut no corners!

** I use 100% quilter’s grade cotton fabric and you can select the colors.  I will email you some websites to look at to choose your fabric.  The choices are endless!  Note: we do not use bedsheets to back your quilt!  We provide a top quality product and use the best fabric available for your quilt.

** Quilting:  each t shirt quilt is professionally machine quilted by Meandering Spirits with an edge-to-edge, over-all meander design. Optional designs are available, please see our Quilting Services page for more information.  We do not tack or tie blocks, quilting provides stability,  looks beautiful and extends the life of the quilt.  The finished binding is also hand sewn to the back of the quilt.  

** Leave the cutting to us, please do not cut your tee’s. We love to cut them up! If you have done some cutting, no problem, send them in and we will let you know what we can do with them.  A little piecing here and there can fix many cutting errors.  

Note: No vulgar tees will be accepted or ones that advocate violence, drugs, etc. 

What is a block?

A block is one square or one T-Shirt (we can often combine shirts into one block).  That size is  either 12" or 15”  (some tees have smaller graphics and can fit into a 12" block).  If your graphic measures larger than 14” it cannot be used in your quilt unless you approve of losing some of the outer design.  Several blocks make up a row and width of the quilt, then several rows make up the length.  Example:  4 blocks x 5 blocks will make a twin size quilt approximately 70” wide x 87” long. 

What can be used in a Block?  

T-Shirts, sweatshirts, shirts, jerseys, tank tops, etc.  (no jean fabric as it unravels). Buttons, snaps, etc. will be removed as we cannot quilt over them.   Most clothing items can be combined into a memory t shirt quilt.  If they are bulky, they cannot be quilted over though we do quilt around that part (such as a pocket).  Note:  I cannot accept baby items with sewn in snaps.  

How do I choose the layout of my T-Shirts?

You can select the layout of your quilt by  numbering your tees in a grid...example:  12 blocks = a twin size quilt of 3 blocks wide and 4 blocks long. Top row of the quilt has 3 blocks...number them from left to right, 1-3.  2nd row number 4-6, etc. Pin or staple your number to the tee or use a marker to number it on the bottom of the tee away from the graphic.  You can also take a photo of your layout and email it.  OR you can leave the designing to me.  Once I have your shirts cut to size I will email you a photo of the layout for your approval, at this time you can move any of the shirts around that you wish.  

What is Sashing, Backing & Binding?

Sashing is a 2 inch border around each block.  It provides additional stability to the t shirt, separates each t shirt and improves the overall look of the quilt.  I like to say it makes the t shirts look like they are floating on fabric, each one individually framed.  

Backing is the fabric on the back side of the quilt. We do not use bedsheets for backing as they break down over time.   Binding is a narrow strip of double folded fabric, sewn to the edge of the quilt to finish the raw edge. It appears about 1/2 " wide and has a soft, rounded edge. I hand sew the binding to the back of the quilt.   It is the perfect finish to the quilt!

What if my T-Shirts have holes or stains?

We cannot alter stains or holes and each t shirt will be incorporated into the quilt based on its condition.  Each block is cut either 12" or  15” square and if the graphic has a hole in it or a stain on it, that will be part of that block. I can often sew a hole closed   We do our best to cut around it but often we cannot. Please wash your t shirts, do not use starch or fabric softener, dry without as well.

Can I wash my Quilt?

Yes, they can be machine washed in cold water on the gentle cycle and line dried, using a gentle soap such as Woolite.  For best results have your quilt dry cleaned.   Never use bleach on your quilt. You must dry clean if using red or purple fabric, always check with your dry cleaner, too.  
 
Note:   You may also select flannel for backing and/or a themed fabric, no additional charge.